How to register to vote and the key deadlines in Massachusetts

A person walks past polling station signs outside the Newton Free Library during Massachusetts state primary voting in September, in Newton, Mass.Steven Senne/Associated Press

With Election Day nearing, Massachusetts voters will soon head to the polls or submit their mail-in ballots by Nov. 5, casting votes on everything from the presidential race to important local issues.

Several important dates are approaching before Election Day. Here are key deadlines to know:

When is the Massachusetts voter registration deadline?

If you’re not registered to vote in Massachusetts, there’s still time to do so before the state’s deadline. The last day to register to vote is Saturday, Oct. 26, and you can register online at the Massachusetts Secretary of State’s website.

Voters can also update their address, name, or political party affiliation online.

How can I check to see if I’m registered to vote?

Voters can check their status online by going to the state’s website and entering their name, date of birth, and ZIP code.

When is the last day to register to vote by mail?

The deadline to apply for mail-in voting is Oct. 29 at 5 p.m., though the secretary of state’s website recommends that people apply two to three weeks before Election Day.

Where do I drop off my ballot?

If you choose to vote by mail, the ballot must be postmarked on or before Nov. 5. You can drop off a vote-by-mail ballot at a local election office, ballot drop box, or at an early voting location. Officials advise that anyone mailing back their ballot should do so as soon as they can.

A list of local election offices and drop boxes can be found here.

You can check your ballot status online by entering your name, address, and ZIP code. This will allow you to see if your ballot has been mailed, when it was returned, and whether it has been accepted or rejected.

How to register to vote

You can register to vote in person, online, or by mail.

Voters can register to vote online if their signature is on file with the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles.

When is the first day of in-person early voting?

Early voting in Massachusetts starts on Saturday, Oct. 19, and runs through Friday, Nov. 1.